PAF chief for purchase of F-16 planes now
IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency
Islamabad, Nov 21, IRNA
Pakistan-Planes
The chief of Pakistan Air Force Kalim Saadat has called for purchase of F-16 planes from the United States now, indirectly opposing the deferment as announced by President General Pervez Musharraf.
Local private television channel, Geo, reported on Monday that the PAF chief was of the view that if Pakistan did not go for the planes now, the nation would have to wait for another 10-12 years.
"We will have to start again scratch negotiations, if now we decide to postpone the purchase of the planes. This will also cost us more," he maintained.
It is upto the nation to take a decision, he added, saying earlier the nation wanted the planes and now they wanted the deal's deferment.
Pakistan looks to acquire 25 used F-16 planes and 50-55 new ones.
However, in the wake of earthquake that struck Pakistan and Kashmir last month, President Musharraf announced the postponement.
As part of its assistance to Pakistan, the United States has announced US dollar 3 billion package, including the fighter planes and helicopters.
The opposition parties had also called for the deferment of planes and the purchase of surveillance planes from Sweden besides suspension of work on the new general headquarters.
The opposition wants diversion of more funds for the relief and rehabilitation of the millions of quake victims.
The tragedy killed more than 73,000, injured over 0.1 million, besides rendering over 4 million homeless.
President Musharraf told foreign journalists last week that other defence-related deals were also being considered for review.
/2023/235/1430/1412
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